Hey there,
Today I'm sharing a quick info that you should know if you have a visa or residence permit for France.
Too often I see people lose an opportunity, or find themselves in a stalled emergency situation because they aren't aware of this rule, and I want you to avoid this mistake.
So here's what you need to know:
If you have a visa or residence permit for France, you must submit your renewal application 2 to 4 months before it expires.
2 months before expiration is the latest time to file.
Why it's important:
1 - Processing times: Prefectures take an average of 3â4 months to process applications for residence permits. Depending on where you are in France and their workload, this time may be longer.
Applying for renewal on time will give the prefecture agents the time they need to process your application, and for you to get a response before your residence permit expires.
2 - âRisk of fine: Applying within this time limit is also a legal obligation. If you fail to do so, the prefecture may impose a fine of âŹ180, in addition to the âŹ75â225 you already pay in stamp duty, to collect your new residence permit.
3 - âLoss of rights: This is one of the most important consequences. When you apply within the time limit, if your permit has expired, the prefecture must issue you with a temporary residence permit if they have not finished processing your application.
If it doesnât do it automatically, you have the right to ask for it, and even go before a judge to order the prefecture to do it.
But if you filed late, this document may be more difficult to obtain. It may even block your option to go to court, since the judge may consider that you have placed yourself in this situation.
In the event of a real emergency, if your residence permit has expired, you risk being stranded with no other option left but to wait for the prefecture to issue you this provisional document.
This can take days or even months, depending on the prefecture where you live.
Lesson to remember: If you have a visa or residence permit, you must apply for renewal between 2â4 months, and no later than 2 months before it expires.
đ In the next Newsletter, I'll be sharing a key resource to help you if you've filed your application online, that your residence permit has expired or is about to expire, and you haven't received any news from the prefecture.
Speak tomorrow.
Jeremy | Way 2 France